Where is Turkmen Sahara? | Everything About the Ancient Land of Color and Dance
Turkmen Sahara is a vast and historic region located in the northeast of Iran, recognized as one of the natural and cultural gems of the country. Spanning approximately 400 kilometers, it resides in the provinces of Golestan and North Khorasan and extends part of its territory to Iran’s neighboring countries, including Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan. The region’s high geographical diversity includes mountains, meadows, forests, and beautiful deserts, each with its own tales and cultures.
Throughout its history, Turkmen Sahara has seen significant influences from various civilizations. The history of this area reveals how it has developed over time and played a prominent role in regional trade and culture. The unique customs and traditions of Turkmen Sahara make it an attractive destination for tourists seeking culture and tradition in the area.
Among the attractions of this region are Turkmen Port, Ashuradeh Island, Kaboudwal Waterfall, and the Gonbad-e Qabus tower. Each of these locations offers a unique experience to visitors with their natural and historical beauty. For more information and travel planning to Turkmen Sahara, you can utilize the services of Iran Charter for a comfortable and memorable journey.
History of Turkmen Sahara
Turkmen Sahara, one of Iran’s oldest regions, boasts a rich and eventful history. Throughout millennia, it has been influenced by various civilizations, witnessing the spread of Turkmen culture. Due to its strategic geographic location, the Turkmen Sahara has played an essential role in trade and cultural routes between Central Asia and the Middle East. Numerous archaeological sites, including buildings, tombs, and historical structures, reflect its cultural and historical richness. Iran Charter offers historical tours to the Turkmen Sahara, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore this profound history.
Culture and Traditions of Turkmen Sahara
The culture of Turkmen Sahara is a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. The region’s people display a unique cultural identity through their colorful attire and local music. Turkmen customs include local festivals, traditional dances, and handcrafts, each narrating a part of the history and culture of the Turkmen people. Iran Charter organizes cultural programs in the Turkmen Sahara, enabling tourists to delve deeper into this culture and enjoy its beauty.
Tourist Attractions in Turkmen Sahara
Turkmen Sahara, with its numerous tourist attractions, is an ideal destination for nature and history enthusiasts. From places like Turkmen Port, Ashuradeh Island, Kaboudwal Waterfall, to the Gonbad-e Qabus, which is one of the tallest brick structures in the world, each offers a unique experience for visitors. Iran Charter leads you to the best sites in the Turkmen Sahara with specialized tours, ensuring a memorable journey.
Economy of Turkmen Sahara
The economy of Turkmen Sahara is based on agriculture, livestock farming, and handicrafts. The region’s fertile lands contribute to diverse agricultural products. Additionally, Turkmen horse breeding and handicraft production hold significant importance, both contributing to the region’s economic prosperity. Iran Charter introduces economic opportunities in the Turkmen Sahara, aiding local businesses in promoting and sustaining regional economy.
Climate of Turkmen Sahara
The climate of Turkmen Sahara varies depending on the season and region. Spring and autumn, with their pleasant and cool weather, are the best times to visit these areas. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are cold and damp. The region’s climate diversity offers various experiences for tourists. Iran Charter provides accurate weather information, helping you choose the best time for your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the Turkmen Sahara located?
- The Turkmen Sahara is a vast land covering 400 kilometers across countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan. In Iran, this desert is located in the northeastern part of the country, encompassing large parts of Golestan and North Khorasan provinces.
- In which province of Iran is the Turkmen Sahara located?
- The Turkmen Sahara is located in the northern part of Golestan and parts of North Khorasan province.
- What is the best time to visit the Turkmen Sahara?
- Spring, late summer, and early autumn are the best times to travel to the Turkmen Sahara and enjoy its tourist attractions.
- What are the main attractions in the Turkmen Sahara?
- Key attractions in the Turkmen Sahara include Turkmen Port, Ashuradeh Island, Sofikam Protected Area, Ghareh Ghasheli Village, Kaboudwal Waterfall, Aq Qala City, old brick bridge, Great Wall of Gorgan, Khaled Nabi Cemetery, stone graveyard, Gonbad-e Qabus, Alma Gol Wetland, Shirvan Ancient Hills, Maraveh Tappeh, Makhtumqoli Faraghi’s Tomb, Seyed Gholich Ishan School, Qizlar Fortress, local souvenirs and handicrafts, local foods, local restaurants, shopping centers, and various accommodations.
- What is the economy of the Turkmen Sahara like?
- The economy of the Turkmen Sahara varies by region. Turkmen living east of the Caspian Sea and Turkmen Port are mostly engaged in fishing, while those in the semi-arid and desert areas are primarily into livestock and cattle breeding. Turkmen horse breeding is also common here.
- What is the climate like in the Turkmen Sahara?
- The climate of the Turkmen Sahara is generally mild and humid, but becomes hotter and drier further north and east from the Caspian Sea. Summers are hot, and winters are mild with irregular rainfall.
- What are the souvenirs and handicrafts of the Turkmen Sahara?
- Souvenirs and handicrafts of the Turkmen Sahara include traditional clothing such as intricately designed shawls and scarves, Telpek wool hats for men, carpet weaving, kilim weaving, felt weaving, jewelry, silk weaving, needlework, wooden crafts, and felting.
- What are the local foods of the Turkmen Sahara?
- Local foods of the Turkmen Sahara include Turkmen Pilaf or Chekdermeh, Heli Ash, Yogurt Ash, Osbeh Ash, Kpor Kaleh, Chickpea Pilaf, Mash Pilaf, Akmak Bread, Qatelama Pastry, and various Burks.
- What are the famous restaurants in the Turkmen Sahara?
- Famous restaurants in the Turkmen Sahara include Pardis Restaurant, Caspian Restaurant, Baghdadi Restaurant and Kitchen, and Barekat Restaurant.
- How can one stay in the Turkmen Sahara?
- In the Turkmen Sahara, you can find various accommodation options including village houses, eco-lodges, apartments, suites, and forest cottages, which can be chosen and booked according to your budget and preferences.
- What are the access routes to the Turkmen Sahara?
- Access to the Turkmen Sahara is possible via driving through the Firouzkuh road towards Sari, the Gilan-Mazandaran road for residents of the north and northwest, or the Mashhad-Quchan-Kalaleh or Nishapur-Sabzevar-Shahroud routes for those in the east and northeast Iran. Train travel is available via the Tehran-Gorgan railway line, and flights can be taken from Neka and Gorgan airports.
- What essential tips should be observed when traveling to the Turkmen Sahara?
- Essential travel tips to the Turkmen Sahara include ensuring vehicle safety, checking road and weather conditions prior to travel, pre-booking accommodation, carrying enough bottled water and food in the vehicle, planning visits to tourist sites, purchasing tickets in advance, and informing friends or family about your travel plans.
- How can one book tours to the Turkmen Sahara?
- You can use the Iran Charter (irancharter.ir) website for booking tours to the Turkmen Sahara. Iran Charter provides various accommodations and tourism packages to assist you in planning an optimal trip.
- What are the prominent natural attractions of the Turkmen Sahara?
- Prominent natural attractions of the Turkmen Sahara include Kaboudwal Waterfall, Alma Gol Wetland, Ashuradeh Island, Shirvan Ancient Hills, and the Sofikam Protected Area.
- Does the Turkmen Sahara have a unique culture?
- Yes, the Turkmen Sahara boasts a unique culture and customs including local attire, traditional music with the dotar instrument, local festivals such as Aq Ash celebration and Nowruz, among other cultural ceremonies.
- What are the important cities in the Turkmen Sahara?
- Important cities in the Turkmen Sahara include Turkmen Port, Gonbad-e Kavus, Kalaleh, Aq Qala, Negin Shahr, Maraveh Tappeh, and Marz.
- What types of tourist activities are offered in the Turkmen Sahara?
- The Turkmen Sahara offers various tourism activities including visiting historical sites, nature walks, horse riding competitions, bird watching, and experiencing local culture and cuisine.
- What are the best places to buy souvenirs in the Turkmen Sahara?
- The best places for buying souvenirs in the Turkmen Sahara include the border market at Turkmen Port, the Incheboron Border Market, Russian Market in Gonbad-e Kavus, and various daily and permanent markets offering local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Where is the Kaboudwal Waterfall in the Turkmen Sahara and how can it be accessed?
- Kaboudwal Waterfall is located in the Hyrcanian forests of Golestan Province and is Iran’s only fully moss-covered waterfall. To reach this waterfall, head to Aliabad Katul Village and drive 10 kilometers southeast. After entering the forest park, a 20-minute walk will lead you to the waterfall.
- What is the Qizlar Fortress in the Turkmen Sahara and what are its features?
- Qizlar Fortress is the only rock fortress in the Turkmen Sahara located southeast of Maraveh Tappeh near the Yeke Chanar village. Built into a mountain, it served as a refuge for women and girls during World Wars I and II.
- What is the Gonbad-e Qabus in the Turkmen Sahara and why is it famous?
- Gonbad-e Qabus is one of the most significant historical attractions in the Turkmen Sahara, located in Gonbad-e Kavus city. This pentagonal and 15-meter tall tower is the world’s tallest brick tower, hosting the tomb of Qabus, the son of Voshmgir, Shams ol-Ma’ali. Built in 397 AH, it features Kufi script inscriptions.
- An insight into the music culture of the Turkmen Sahara
- Music holds a special place in the lives of Turkmen, with the dotar as their primary instrument, recognized worldwide for its sound. The traditional music of Turkmen, with its beautiful melodies and unique instruments, plays a vital part in the region’s culture.
- What are the accommodation options in the Turkmen Sahara?
- The Turkmen Sahara offers diverse accommodation options including village houses, eco-lodges, residential apartments, luxury suites, and forest cottages, tailored to tourists’ budgets and tastes.
- Does the Turkmen Sahara have protected natural areas?
- Yes, the Turkmen Sahara features protected areas such as the Sofikam Protected Area, preserving habitats for rare birds and other wildlife species.
- What recreational activities can be done in the Turkmen Sahara?
- Recreational activities in the Turkmen Sahara include bird watching, nature hiking, touring historical sites, participating in horse riding competitions, strolling in the Hyrcanian forests, and shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Are tourist tours available in the Turkmen Sahara?
- Yes, there are various tourist tours available in the Turkmen Sahara, including visiting natural and historical attractions, staying in different accommodations, and experiencing local culture and cuisine.
- What is Maraveh Tappeh in the Turkmen Sahara and why is it important?
- Maraveh Tappeh is a significant historical area in the Turkmen Sahara, comprising ancient hills and historical tombs. Due to its historical importance and unique archaeological sites, it’s listed among Iran’s national heritage sites.
